{"id":63286,"date":"2026-01-27T03:19:51","date_gmt":"2026-01-27T02:19:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.apfelpatient.de\/?p=63286"},"modified":"2026-01-27T03:22:17","modified_gmt":"2026-01-27T02:22:17","slug":"airtag-2-all-improvements-in-tracking-and-technology","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.apfelpatient.de\/en\/allgemein\/airtag-2-alle-verbesserungen-bei-ortung-und-technik","title":{"rendered":"AirTag 2: All the improvements in tracking and technology"},"content":{"rendered":"

After roughly five years, Apple is launching a new generation of its location tracker. The AirTag 2 remains virtually unchanged visually, but has been technically improved in many aspects. The goal is clear: more precise location tracking, greater range, and increased security, without altering the familiar usage concept.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first AirTag quickly established itself as an integral part of the Apple ecosystem. It reliably helped locate keys, bags, or suitcases. The AirTag 2 builds on this foundation. It doesn't replace anything fundamental, but rather improves details that are relevant in everyday use. These fine-tunings are precisely what distinguishes a mere update from a significant advancement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

New second-generation ultra-wideband<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The AirTag 2 uses Apple's second-generation UWB chip. This chip is the technical basis for more accurate short-range tracking and ensures more stable position data, especially indoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Greater range for precision finding<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Precision finding now works from approximately 1.5 times the distance of before. This allows you to locate an object more quickly, even before you are in close proximity. Arrows and distance indicators guide you to your target more reliably.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Precision finding on the Apple Watch<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Precision finding is no longer limited to the iPhone. It is now also supported by the Apple Watch Series 9 and later, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later. This requires the integrated UWB chip in these models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Louder speaker<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The integrated speaker is up to 50 percent louder than the first AirTag. This makes it significantly easier to locate, especially in noisy environments. At the same time, the louder sound serves as an additional measure against unwanted tracking, as it is harder to miss or mask.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improved Bluetooth range<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Apple uses a newer Bluetooth specification for the AirTag 2. This offers a greater range and ensures a more stable connection before switching to the "Find My" network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Revised internal design<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

To accommodate the louder speaker, the internal components were redesigned. Rumors had already circulated that the AirTag would be more difficult to tamper with, particularly regarding the removal of the speaker. Whether this is actually true will only be revealed by later disassemblies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Slightly higher weight<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The AirTag 2 weighs 11.8 grams, or 0.42 ounces. This makes it about seven percent heavier than its predecessor. In practical use, this difference is hardly noticeable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

New text on the back<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The text on the back has been completely redesigned and is now in capital letters. Additionally, IP67 certification, NFC, and "Find My" support are explicitly mentioned for the first time. These features were previously available but were not indicated on the casing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Still not intended for pets<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Apple explicitly states in the announcement<\/a> and on the product page<\/a> that the AirTag 2 is intended for tracking objects, not people or pets. Even though many people still use the AirTag for animals, this use remains officially prohibited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

New reset procedure<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The reset process differs from the first model. The battery must be removed, left out for at least five seconds, and then reinserted. This process must be repeated a total of four times. According to Apple, it can take up to 12 seconds until the final confirmation tone is heard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

iOS 26.2.1 is the minimum requirement<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The AirTag 2 requires<\/a> iOS 26.2.1 to function. Devices that do not support iOS 26 are not compatible with the new AirTag. This means the AirTag 2 is more dependent on current Apple software than its predecessor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Familiar features will remain<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

All the basic functions of the original AirTag are still present. The AirTag 2 uses the "Find My" network, accessing nearby Apple devices when needed, thus enabling remote tracking beyond its own Bluetooth range. The "Lost" mode with NFC contact information is also supported, as is location sharing with others, such as participating airlines at airports. It still uses a CR2032 coin cell<\/a> battery, which Apple claims lasts for over a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price and availability<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The price remains unchanged. The AirTag 2 costs \u20ac35, and a four-pack is \u20ac119. Free engraving is still included. Sales start immediately, and shipping begins on Wednesday, January 28th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n